Are you a scholar, writer, journalist, or artist facing threats due to conflict or war? The NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2025 in the Netherlands is now open for applications. This prestigious 5-month fellowship opportunity is designed to provide a safe academic and creative space for individuals at risk. Applications are open until 31 December 2025.
About the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship
The Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS) offers the Safe Haven Fellowship to support academics, writers, artists, and journalists whose work is endangered due to war, political unrest, or other forms of oppression. The program aims to protect academic freedom and ensure the continuity of intellectual and cultural work.
Scholarship Information
- Partial Funding
- Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS)
- Fellowship
- All Subjects
- International Students
- Netherlands
- 12/31/2025
Fellowship Duration
- 5 months per fellowship
- Two cohorts: September to January or February to June
Degree Level
NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2025 in the Netherlands is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS).
Available Subjects
Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.
- All Subjects
Benefits
What the Fellowship Offers
- A monthly stipend of €3,500
- Subsidized accommodation in Amsterdam or commuting travel support
- Office space and research facilities
- Communal lunches and full participation in the NIAS intellectual community
- Travel reimbursement for a round-trip to Amsterdam
- Letter of invitation for visa application (visa must be arranged by the fellow)
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- For researchers: Minimum 3 years of post-doctoral research experience
- For artists and journalists: Equivalent professional experience (PhD not mandatory)
- Project must be in the humanities or social sciences
- Strong command of English is required
- Must not be affiliated with institutions boycotted by the Dutch state
Application Requirements
- Completed online application form
- Project proposal (max. 1000 words)
- Motivation letter (max. 150 words)
- Explanation of why relocation to NIAS is necessary
- Detailed explanation of the project’s goals, relevance, feasibility, and expected output
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Clarity and quality of the project
- Academic, cultural, or societal relevance
- Methodology and feasibility
- Contribution to and benefit from the NIAS environment
- Overall impact and applicant’s engagement potential
Application Procedure
- Visit the official NIAS website and use the online application module
- Deadline:Â 31 December 2025 at 23:59 CET
Apply here:Â NIAS Website
Download: 2025 Fellowship Regulations & Guidelines
FAQs – NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2025
1. What kind of projects are eligible for the fellowship?
Eligible projects must fall within the humanities or social sciences. Proposals can be academic, artistic, or journalistic, but they must clearly outline the topic, research question, relevance, methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes.
2. What is the duration of the fellowship, and when does it start?
The fellowship lasts for 5 months. There are two possible terms: September to January or February to June. Applicants can indicate their preferred period in the application.
3. Can I apply if I am currently living in a safe country but cannot return to my home country?
Yes. The fellowship is intended for individuals whose work has been affected by conflict or repression, regardless of their current country of residence, as long as the need for a temporary safe working environment is justified.
Why Choose the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship?
- Join a world-renowned academic community in Amsterdam
- Continue your research or creative work safely and without censorship
- Gain access to research networks, resources, and peer feedback
- Work in collaboration with Maastricht University and the University of Amsterdam, official partners of the Safe Haven Fellowship program